Our Consultants

Karen Hattaway - Director

Karen Hattaway has been a multiple business owner and understands the financial and market demands that are endured to be successful. She is a business consultant with expertise in strategic planning, conceptual design, branding, tourism, and hospitality. With 28 years of experience in the industry, Karen has worked with numerous clients to assist them in achieving their business goals and optimising their operations.

Karen’s background in business management, paired with her innovative thinking and strong analytical skills, allows her to provide valuable insights and effective solutions to her clients. She excels in conducting comprehensive business analyses, identifying areas for improvement, and developing strategic plans tailored to each client’s unique needs.

One of Karen’s areas of specialisation is conceptual design. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of customer behaviour, she has successfully helped clients in various industries develop successful and profitable business concepts. She applies her expertise to create experiences that captivate customers, increase brand loyalty, and that are unique and cutting edge.

Additionally, Karen has extensive knowledge in branding strategy, helping businesses create and enhance their brand image and position themselves effectively in the market. She understands the importance of a strong brand identity and works closely with clients to develop a cohesive brand strategy that resonates with the target audience and identifies their key attributes.

In the tourism and hospitality sector, Karen has owned and operated 6 award winning restaurant and bars and has extensive experience in optimising operations and driving revenue growth. She understands the unique challenges facing organisations in this industry and uses her expertise to develop strategies that maximise profitability while maintaining a superior level of customer service and excellence.

As a consultant at Rua Consultancy, Karen brings her vast expertise and passion for helping businesses succeed to every client engagement. Whether it is strategic planning, conceptual design, branding, tourism or hospitality consulting, Karen is committed to delivering tailored solutions that drive measurable results. Her professionalism, dedication, and collaborative approach make her a valued asset to any business aiming to excel in today’s competitive landscape.

John Nicholson

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, John Nicolson brings a wealth of knowledge and skills that make him a valuable asset to Rua Consultancy team.

John has an extensive background in building, having worked on various projects throughout his career. In London, Australia, and New Zealand. He has a deep understanding of construction techniques, materials, and processes. His experience includes working on both commercial and residential buildings, enabling him to provide insights into the unique challenges and requirements of different types of projects.

In addition to his expertise in building, John also possesses a strong understanding of construction management.

He is well-versed in all aspects of construction, including contracting, cost estimation, scheduling, quality control, and safety regulations. With his knowledge of industry best practices, John can ensure that projects are executed effectively and efficiently. His strategic thinking makes him an invaluable resource for the company, capable of delivering successful outcomes for any project he is involved in.

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Karen Hattaway - Director

Karen Hattaway has been a multiple business owner and understands the financial and market demands that are endured to be successful. She is a business consultant with expertise in strategic planning, conceptual design, branding, tourism, and hospitality. With 28 years of experience in the industry, Karen has worked with numerous clients to assist them in achieving their business goals and optimising their operations.